Domestic Violence

Core Characteristics of Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence is a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviors, including physical, sexual and psychological attacks, as well as economic coercion, that is used against an intimate partner. This pattern of behavior includes a variety of tactics that may be criminal, may cause physical injury, and may occur on a daily basis.

Is used to intimidate, humiliate and frighten as a way of maintaining power and control;

Is caused by the perpetrator, not the victim or the relationship;

Differentially affects men and women; Women experience more violence, more severe violence and more serious injuries than male victims of domestic violence;

Is likely to present increased risk to the victim and children at the time of separation from the abuser;

Evokes victim behavior that is often about ensuring survival (e;g; minimizing or denying the violence, taking responsibility for the violence, protecting the abuser, using alcohol or drugs, self defense, seeking help, remaining in the relationship).